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1998 Outrage 23 Evinrude 225

Recently acquired boat and after transporting ~300 miles noticed that one of the mounting bolts had compressed into the transom. Prior to trailering, the boat had gel coat cracks, but I didn't notice the compression.

I can't insert a photo but imagine the washer compressing into transom and the motor now being ~1/16" off transom. Other bolt looks fine and motor is firmly against transom.

Q1: Research says everyone goes to waterlog, but I'd like to hear thoughts on replacing washers with the transom saver (metal plate) before going to worst case scenario.

Q2: I didn't use transom saver (for trailering), the original owner said that it had been trailered in the locked position several times with no issues. I should have done more research. I still need to trailer it another 400 miles to final destination but am not sure what I can/should do beyond purchasing a transom saver prior to trailering. I could tighten bolt, try to replace that washer with bigger plate, etc. I don't have a lift and my boat guy is in SC.

thoughts appreciated. I'm new to BW and this forum so apologies in advance if I'm breaking any rules.
thanks, jack

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Welcome Jack.

Recessed transom washers are a sign the nuts were overtightened. This is a frequent and common item. No need for concern.

Answer 1- The item to look for is excess sealant around the washer on the inside of the transom and between the engine mounting bracket on the outside of the transom. if excess sealant is found, it is indicative of proper sealant. if there is no sealant, you could remove on bolt at a time, add sealant in both locations and reassemble. Note - see item below on engine height.

Answer 2: Only BPR (Evinrude) included a bracket that was designed for trailering. All other brands have a bracket that allows the engine to be locked in the fully tilted up positon to allow it to be serviced.

While there are dozens of "transom savers" that connect the engine to the trailer, most recommend products that support the engine to the transom. See these products:
https://m-ywedge.com/
https://www.simyamaha.com/accessories...-supports/
https://www.wholesalemarine.com/t-h-m...r-support/

I trailered two of my boats for over 10 years, thousands of miles without an issue. My current boat, trailered, I use a modified 2"x4" with rope ends tied to the transom lifting rings. Last year I did Whaler Gatherings in MI, NC and VA without issue.

* Engine Height - If your engine is mounted with one empty hole above the top set of engine bolts, consider raising the motor 1 additional hole. This will give you better performance. Not a day 1 item, more of an off season thing.

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Thanks for the detailed response, Phil. I will do as you suggested for the mounting bolts. Can you clarify your second response, you share that Evinrude has a built-in trailering mechanism and then share transom saver recommendations. Are you suggesting a belt and suspenders approach?

thanks again,
jack

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You place the 2x4 on edge under the engine and tilt down till it makes contact. I made notches to help placement.

The string is a precaution if the block slips for some reason. Don't want another vehicle getting a 2x4 in the face.

Here is a photo - https://photos.app.goo.gl/Cb2KtrnmMSd...mMSdkz3Ce7

I don't like trailering using the bracket. The engine is tilted too high for my liking so I use the block.

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Thank you for the description and pic. I'm assuming that if Evinrude has a trailering bracket that I should use that vs. the 2x. LMK if you disagree. cheers.

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If an Evinrude, use the trailer bracket.